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Porn helpline launched for the UK's 1.2MILLION addicts

Britain's first 24-hour counselling service for online pornography addiction was launched yesterday.

HelpAddictions.org will operate around the clock, seven-days-a-week, to support the UK's estimated 1.2million adult addicts.

The service includes live telephone sessions with trained counsellors and 'accountability' software that monitors online activity and sends a list of viewed x-rated websites to users' therapists.

Other treatments include a home study program, daily exercises, audio files and access to a confidential online forum where users can discuss their conditions with, and support, fellow addicts.

The site also offers support for the partners of porn addicts, who often feel 'traumatised' by their partners' behaviour.

The six-week not-for-profit program - endorsed by industry regulator The Counselling Society - costs from £89 and can be joined anonymously.

Dr Chris Forester, one of the site's resident experts, blamed the internet for fuelling the rapid spread of pornography.

He said: 'As trained therapists, we have become increasingly aware of porn addiction - principally because of easy, affordable internet access.

'Porn addiction has become a huge issue, with negative impacts on peoples' sex lives, relationships and even career.

'Our program is the solution to this minefield. From our years of experience we have created a flexible program using the latest techniques, structured in a unique way.'

Addiction to internet pornography is increasing at an alarming rate.

The majority of victims are middle-class white-collar workers, whose professions bring them into contact with the internet on a daily basis.

Many use internet pornography as an escape from the stresses and strains of their working life.

Retired men who find themselves at home with nothing to do are also among an increasing group of users, according to recent figures.
'In the short space of time since our launch, we have received hundreds of enquiries from people who want to quit porn but just don't know how to.'

The instant accessibility of internet pornography and the ability to view anonymously and in privacy are proving to be a toxic combination.

'Sex' is the most-searched word on the internet.

Dr Forester, who works alongside a team of trained sex counsellors, said 'tame' internet searches 'almost always' lead to looking at more extreme sexual photographs or videos.

'In the short space of time since our launch, we have received hundreds of enquiries from people who want to quit porn but just don't know how to,' he said.

'Most people feel ashamed of their habit, and it puts a strain on their sex life and relationships.'

The site's courses are based on a five-step treatment process which, if unsuccessful, are free-of-charge.

Dr Forester added: 'Pornography addiction has a taboo which we are desperately trying to overcome. If it is not dealt with head-on, it could seriously affect the lives of millions of people for many years to come.'